15 Best Things to Do in Helsinki (Finland)

Finland’s capital was founded in the 16th century but the city you see today really took shape in the 1800s. This was when the Russians laid out Helsinki along similar lines to St. Petersburg, with its broad streets and neoclassical mansions.

Get the Helsinki Card for a free city tour, free public transport, fre entrance to museums and discounts on shopping, restaurants and tours

A little earlier the Swedes had completed Soumenlinna, an ambitious sea fortress that was intended to keep the Russians at bay. This huge project is still intact and is just one of a catalogue of exciting things to track down in Helsinki. Find time to see some modern architecture too; the Temppeliaukio Church is out of this world.

8. Urban Sauna visit

Sauna is a Finnish word, and there are three million of them in Finland, a large quantity of which are found right here in Helsinki.

Many are open to the public, and whether you’re visiting in winter or summer, it’s just one of those things you have to try in Finland.

For public saunas try the districts of Kotiharju, Merihaka, Hermanni, or the new “Löyly” complex at the southern end of Helsinki peninsula.

There’s some sauna etiquette to remember but none of it is too difficult: Men and women are usually separate, naked is best but towels are allowed, and it’s usually best to keep your voice low if you have to talk at all!